NATICK – Librarians are encouraging residents young and old alike to explore fantasy books next month, a genre they say is more than just something for children to enjoy.

For this year’s Natick Reads, librarians at Morse Institute Library and Bacon Free Library hope residents tackle books by Neil Gaiman, who has written fantasy novels, short stories, graphic novels and children’s stories. He has also written for film, television and other mediums.

Morse Institute Library Assistant Director Jane Finlay said Gaiman’s variety of work makes him an ideal author for Natick Reads, an effort to encourage residents to read the same books and participate in related programs.

Morse will host a kickoff event from 2 to 4 p.m. March 1 on the library’s lower level featuring a children’s fantasy craft, a movie about a girl from a Gaiman book, fantasy games for all ages and graveyard photos.

Throughout the month of March, Morse will host book discussions and special events. Bacon Free Library is planning an adult-level discussion of Gaiman’s book "Neverwhere" at 7 p.m. March 18 and a children’s read-a-thon of "M is for Magic" at 10 a.m. March 15.

Finlay and Bacon Free Library director John Brisbin said the fantasy genre is something adults and children can both enjoy.

"We’re all about celebrating reading in whatever way can," Brisbin said. "It’s just great to have the town read together and discuss (the books) together."

For more information about Natick Reads events, visit morseinstitute.org or baconfreelibrary.net.

Brian Benson can be reached at 508-626-3964 or bbenson@wickedlocal.com. Follow him on Twitter @bbensonmwdn.